Simplicity

Perhaps an overly abused concept in my world - an ideal I've barely begun to practice yet one I like to proclaim.

The ideals of simplicity for me go beyond not being beholden to a cell phone, scheduling every moment of my time, or piling on the dvd/cd/book collection (uhhh). It's about slowing down, being less dependent on things or media stimuli and creating my world instead of reacting to the world around me. Even that is a rather trite little list.

True simplicity begins with a peaceful heart, a love for my neighbor, removing the blockades I have set against others. I waste so much energy on holding grudges, inflating offenses and searching for the worst in others that I have wound up a bitter, frightened person.

I'm too young for that. My body, my mind, my spirit are paying the price for it already and statistically I have another 40ish years left. I'm passively killing myself.

So. How do I go about beginning to live a simpler life?

Slowly. :) Bit by bit. With intention, patience, perspective, and gratitude. And with the commitment to pick up and dust off when appropriate.

when you learn to love yourself you will dissolve all the stones that are cast